Bharata Will Not Cross Rama's Will Even in Thought
Ayodhya Kanda, Doha 289
Doha 289 · Movement 2 of 2
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Janaka reassures Sunaina that no change of hour can alter Bharata's obedience. Dawn may bring a new council and new proposals, but it will not bring rebellion into his mind.
Bharata will not push against Rama's command even inwardly, where no witness could accuse him. His loyalty begins before action, in the unseen place where desire either submits or secretly preserves itself.
Do not grieve, the king says, yet tears overtake him as he speaks. He knows that such obedience does not make Bharata's suffering small. It makes it immeasurably deep, because the brother capable of changing the assembly refuses to purchase relief by violating Rama's will.
Janaka weeps because Bharata's obedience is complete: even the private chamber of thought will not step beyond Rama's command.
Read the passage from the Manas
भोरेहुँ भरत न पेलिहहिं मनसहुँ राम रजाइ। करिअ न सोचु सनेह बस कहेउ भूप बिलखाइ।।289।।
Even at dawn, Bharat will never defy Rama's will, not even in thought. Do not grieve, dear one. So spoke the king, weeping, overcome by love.